Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the southern coast of Portugal, Lagos is one of the best places to stay in the Algarve. This is the rare vacation destination that’s drenched in sunshine (there are 300 sunny days a year!), surrounded by beaches (there are miles of coastline to explore), and yet also packed with history, culture, and excellent cuisine.
Let’s start with the beaches, though, shall we? Head down to the coast, and you’ll find miles of uninterrupted white sands stretching east from Lagos to the mouth of the Odiaxere River. This is Meia Praia, the longest and largest beach in Lagos.
To the west of Lagos, the coastline continues toward Praia da Luz, a famous fishing village turned resort town that’s packed with great hotels and boutiques. Before you get there, visit the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, explore the coastal paths and beaches leading to Praia de Porto Mos, or head out onto the Atlantic Ocean in search of sea caves and dolphins.
Then you can explore Lagos’ Old Town. Delve back in time, visiting historic forts, harbors, and churches that played a pivotal role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery. From Lagos, ships once set sail across the world, opening up new trade routes and bringing back wealth and riches. But visit the Slave Market Museum, and you’ll also learn how for centuries, Lagos was effectively the center of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
Lagos is brimming with unique activities and natural attractions. With so much to see and do, you’ll want a nice hotel room to come back to at the end of a long day. Luckily Lagos boasts all sorts of oceanfront resorts, luxurious boutique hotels, and homey all-suite lodges. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Lagos to help you plan your perfect getaway!
If you’re planning a trip to the Algarve, then keep reading as we explain exactly where to stay in Lagos.
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Where to stay in Lagos, Portugal
As one of Portugal’s most enduring vacation destinations, you’ve got loads of choices when it comes down to picking where to stay in Lagos.
If you love a traditional resort with sea views and easy access to white sands, then you’ll find that the beaches to the east and west of Lagos are lined with excellent four- and five-star hotels. Wake up every morning with the sea breeze as the sun rises, and enjoy an al fresco balcony breakfast before heading out to spend the day on Meia Praia or Praia de Porto Mós.
Many of the best Lagos hotels are found on the Ponta de Piedade, a rocky headland to the south of Lagos that’s known for its hidden coves and secluded beaches. Here you’ll find quirky hotels overlooking the dramatic coastal scenery and lovely villas in quiet clifftop locations.
Lagos itself is often overlooked, but if you prefer city life to the beachfront, then you’ll find there are some excellent options available here. Among the historic streets of the Old Town, you’ll find welcoming boutique hotels and traditional villas, often with shady courtyard swimming pools or rooftop terraces offering supreme views of Lagos.
And if you like, then you also have the iconic resorts and villas of Praia da Luz, just a short drive to the west of Lagos. Praia da Luz is one of the Algarve’s most iconic resort destinations, and you’re guaranteed to love the beaches, the fresh seafood, and the holiday vibes!
Without further ado, here’s our countdown of the 12 best places to stay in Lagos!
The 12 Best Hotels in Lagos
1. Palmares Beach House Hotel
One of the best hotels in Lagos is the Palmares Beach House Hotel. This five-star hotel is the height of luxury in the Algarve, and best of all, they only offer adults-only accommodation. That makes this boutique retreat perfect for those romantic getaways or great for any solo travelers just looking for a little peace and quiet.
The Palmares Beach House Hotel truly is a homey boutique hotel, and you’ll love how there are just 18 rooms and two suites, all of which have private balconies with views of the Atlantic Ocean. From the balcony, you can even watch golfers on the driving range that separates the hotel from the beach, or you could head down and play a round yourself on the course!
Rooms at this boutique hotel are decidedly luxurious, with soft colors evoking the Algarve’s relaxed atmosphere and modern amenities making for an easy stay. Spend a relaxed morning at Meia Praia Beach after dining on a gourmet breakfast, and enjoy the resort’s sundeck and saltwater swimming pool in the afternoon.
Head on over to Palmares Clubhouse if you’re looking for a glass of the Algarve’s finest and the chance to mingle with other guests over light tapas and light bites. Save yourself for dinner at Al Sud, though, because the hotel’s fine dining restaurant is guaranteed to take you on an exceptional culinary journey, courtesy of Michelin-trained Head Chef Louis Anjos.
2. Casa Mae
If you’re looking for a beautiful boutique property that’s just a short walk away from Lagos’ Old Town, then there’s no better place to book than Casa Mae. This unique, five-star property is packed with character, and history lovers will have a fabulous time staying on this 19th-century estate.
Now one of the most unique hotels in Lagos, the estate was abandoned until Casa Mae’s team took over and renovated the place. They divided the buildings and grounds into three distinct sections, each with its own style and design. First up are the Boho Chic Cabanas, where you’ll love the private patio, complete with a hammock, outdoor shower, private pool, and relaxed vibes of these spacious apartments.
History fans will want to book a room in the Casa Mae building, which is found above the vegetable garden in the original 19th-century home. The rooms here are decorated with vintage Portuguese furniture and feature bright but breezy decor that you’re going to love.
The final building is Jogo de Bolo, a new addition to the historic estate that features the hotel’s most modern suites. The contemporary architecture allows for spacious rooms and private verandas, while the minimalist decor is just what you need on an Algarve getaway.
There’s a glorious swimming pool in the estate’s old courtyard, while the hotel’s Orta Restaurant serves up a fine selection of local dishes. On the menu, you’ll find an assortment of artisanal cheeses and hams, alongside fresh seafood from the Lagos fish market and vegetables from the hotel’s garden.
3. Lagos Avenida Hotel
With glorious views of Lagos Marina, and an unbeatably convenient location on Avenida dos Descobrimentos, Lagos Avenida Hotel is easily one of the best hotels in Lagos.
Luxury rooms at this four-star boutique hotel offer marina or city views from their private terrace or balcony. Enjoy plush but minimalist decor, unique wooden furnishings, and a light style that’s both laid back and sophisticated.
After settling into your boutique room, head to the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Without a doubt, it’s the infinity pool that steals the show at Lagos Avenida Hotel, and you’ll love spending entire mornings or afternoons taking in the good vibes poolside. Cool off in the water, enjoy the view, and then sit back on your padded sun lounger while you order cocktails from the pool bar.
In the mornings, head straight to Avenida Restaurant for a gourmet buffet that includes eggs benedict cooked with a truffle paste and served alongside a glass of sparkling wine (what better way to start your day?). In the evenings, the restaurant serves up a six-course tasting menu with wine pairings, while the a la carte menu offers a varied selection of dishes as diverse as veal tongue and oxtail.
4. Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel
If you’re looking for a secluded spot in the Portuguese countryside where you can escape the world for days or even weeks at a time, then you’ll find all you’re looking for at Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel.
This five-star getaway is one of the coolest Lagos hotels, offering guests a unique mixture of modern design and historic Algarve tradition alongside five hectares of gardens to enjoy. You’ll find Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel somewhere between Lagos and the beach town of Praia da Luz. The design team has taken a run-down 19th-century estate and transformed it into a contemporary work of boutique luxury.
This is where design meets history, and you’ll love how the hotel has retained traditional features on the facade but has truly brought the interiors into the 21st century. There are only 15 luxury rooms at Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel, each of which offers magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious interiors, and a combination of slate, wood, glass, and steel decor.
Enjoy sweeping views toward the Atlantic Ocean from your private balcony or terrace, or take a calming stroll through orange groves and vegetable gardens as you lose yourself in the tranquility of the grounds. The hotel has both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, in addition to a dedicated wine cellar and a gourmet restaurant serving local dishes.
5. Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda
Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda certainly lives up to its name, and we think this is one of the coolest boutique hotels in Lagos! This quaint, four-star hotel is found in an unbeatable seafront location, with an elevated position atop the dramatic cliffs that rise to form the Ponta da Piedade headland just outside of the city.
You’ll have wonderful views of Praia de Porto Mos from your private balcony or terrace and scenic vistas of the coastline from the hotel’s gardens and outdoor swimming pool. Your boutique room is decorated in what the hotel describes as either “traditional Portuguese” or “contemporary bohemian-chic design.” Each room has its own unique character, features, and furnishings, with bright colors and plush bedding making for a supremely comfortable stay.
Al fresco dining, with unbeatable views of the Algarve, is available during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the hotel’s Mirandus Restaurant. Head Chef Christoph Voight champions local produce, but the eclectic international menu includes such delights as falafel and truffled tagliatelle.
6. The Salty Lodge
The Salty Lodge is your quirky home away from home in Lagos, where you’ll love these award-winning serviced apartments, which are nestled among the historic streets of the Old Town.
This boutique aparthotel is perfect for anyone who relishes their independence while on vacation. Solo travelers can book compact but well-equipped studio apartments, which feature large single beds, a surprisingly spacious living area, and a kitchen.
Upgrade to a one- or two-bedroom apartment, and you’re going to be spoiled for space. These excellent apartments offer bright and colorful decor alongside panoramic views of the Old Town from private balconies.
As this friendly boutique hotel’s name suggests, The Salty Lodge encourages guests to make the most of the coastal location in the Algarve. Throughout the apartments, you’ll find old surfboards decorating the corridors and living rooms, while the hotel also organizes surf lessons on the nearby beaches.
7. Villas D. Dinis
Villas D. Dinis is a laid-back Lagos boutique hotel that’s not short on luxury. This lovely selection of traditional villas is designed in the quintessential Algarvian style, meaning there’s plenty of colorful decor, traditional wooden furnishings, and that all-important relaxed vibe that you’re looking for on vacation.
There are 30 charming residences available at this hotel, and you can book luxury rooms for one, honeymoon suites for two, or hire out entire villas (complete with kitchenettes) for you and your companions. The best suites and villas come with private plunge pools, while the main hotel’s outdoor swimming pool is only ever a short stroll away.
You’ll love the sun terrace and the breakfast patio, where you can enjoy your morning buffet of pastries, cheese, and cold meats. The sense of seclusion is very much welcome, with tall trees surrounding the villa complex, which is situated in a quiet location just outside of Lagos.
You’re a short walk from some of the Ponta da Piedade’s best beaches, including Praia de Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. Oh, and the entire hotel is adults-only, making this a great place for a quiet Lagos getaway!
8. Belmar Spa and Beach Resort
You’ll love the Belmar Spa and Beach Resort’s breathtaking position next to Praia Porto de Mos. This luxury boutique is just steps away from one of Lagos’ finest white sand beaches, so make sure to book a sea view room to make the most of the stunning location!
You can walk from the hotel to the beach in minutes, but you might also find it difficult to leave once you’re at home around the sea-facing outdoor swimming pool in the center of this four-star property. Settle in around the loungers, take a refreshing dip in the pool, and order a glass of Portuguese wine from the pool bar.
This hotel is designed for relaxation, so we highly recommend booking a session at the Belmar Spa. Here you can enjoy the soothing delights of the sauna, treatment rooms, and a Turkish-style hammam before cooling off in the indoor swimming pool.
You can detox with fresh smoothies and healthy snacks at The Green Lounge, enjoy traditional cocktails in the Lobby Bar, and dine with sunset views on the terrace at Levante Restaurant. The hotel’s excellent restaurant serves up an internationally inspired menu, prepared using fresh, Algarvian products, but it’s the al fresco setting that you’re really going to fall for.
We haven’t even mentioned the rooms! That’s because we know you’re going to love the traditional whitewashed exteriors, the bright interiors, and the private balconies – because this is one of the best Lagos hotels!
9. Carvi Beach Hotel
Who else loves a rooftop swimming pool? We certainly do, and we know you’re going to be ecstatic about the Carvi Beach Hotel’s magnificent rooftop terrace, which of course, features an exceptional pool with amazing views over Praia de Dona Ana!
This lovely Lagos boutique hotel is situated in a prime position on the elevated cliffs of the Ponta da Piedade headland. You’re just a short stroll from Lagos’ famous beaches and coves, while the panoramas from the rooftop and from your private balcony are going to awe you every day of your getaway.
Rooms at the Carvi Beach Hotel are chic and modern, with bright white decor adding to the Algarvian vibes. Blackout blinds keep the sun out when you need to, while the floor-to-ceiling doors leading to the patio flood the room with light when you want it!
The rooftop terrace is also home to Luca’s Restaurant, where you can dine in style with panoramic views of the Ponta da Piedade coastline. The menu includes a fine selection of meat cuts, fresh fish from the Lagos fish market, and a select number of seasonal veggie options.
The Carvi Beach Hotel also offers unique packages for remote workers, which include access to a co-working space and super-high-speed internet. What better place to relocate your office than to a beachfront hotel in Lagos?
10. Tivoli Lagos
Tivoli Lagos is a classic choice for luxury-loving travelers visiting the Algarve. This four-star resort is one of the best Lagos hotels, and we know you’re going to love its courtyard swimming pool and the traditional Algarvian decor.
Settle into your sun lounger for the day, and you’ll feel like you’ve made it as you order up cocktails and wine to your poolside retreat. Surrounded by whitewashed exteriors and Portuguese village-style architecture, you’ll also enjoy the soothing, almost homey vibes as you soak up the sun.
Tivoli Lagos is located in the center of Lagos, but you won’t hear the noise of the city when you’re secluded away inside the hotel. You’ll also have access to the complimentary shuttle service, which whisks guests away to the hotel’s private Duna Beach Club on Meia Praia.
Enjoy an afternoon at the beach club, but make sure to return to Tivoli Lagos for dinner. The hotel’s Pateo Velho Restaurant serves up a Portuguese feast cooked on an outdoor grill, with a fine selection of local wines to accompany generous cuts of meat and freshly grilled fish.
11. Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve
The Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve provides five-star luxury overlooking Lagos’ longest (and arguably best!) beach. This boutique resort is perfectly located by the pristine sands of Meia Praia, just a short stroll away from the Atlantic Ocean.
This hotel is perfect for beach bums with a penchant for the luxurious, and you’ll love how it’s set some three miles away from the city on a relatively secluded section of coastline. You’ll have supreme views from your private balcony, where you can survey sand dunes and crashing waves in the distance.
In front of the hotel, you’ll also find lovely outdoor terraces and swimming pools (there are no less than four swimming pools to choose from), and you can order refreshments to your lounger as you bask in the sunshine. The hotel’s luxury spa is one of the best in Lagos, and you can choose from an extensive list of treatments guaranteed to invoke a sense of rejuvenation.
The hotel has all-inclusive packages for those looking for a true luxury retreat away from the outside world. With two restaurants, there’s plenty of gastronomical exploration to be had, with the hotel’s signature dish being sustainably sourced Atlantic cod prepared fresh in front of the diners!
12. Quinta do Mar
You’ll find Quinta do Mar just outside the popular resort village of Prai da Luz, and you’ll love how this unique Lagos hotel offers a self-contained escape from the rest of the Algarve.
Quinta do Mar is set just a short walk away from the rocky coastline and cliffs of the Atlantic Ocean, and the extensive grounds of the hotel promote the welcome sensation of being hidden away in a seemingly undiscovered part of Lagos.
Within the beautiful, well-kept grounds of Quinta do Mar, you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by shady trees and sun loungers. The sense of seclusion continues within your private apartment, each of which has been individually designed and decorated. No two apartments are the same, which means you might just want to return for a second holiday to experience more!
The apartments are fully furnished and equipped, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying a drink at the hotel’s bar and breakfast on the terrace. You can easily head into Praia da Luz or Lagos, too, with the hotel providing an eco-friendly bicycle rental service to help you get around.
That completes our list of the 12 best Lagos hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Lagos, Portugal? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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